OTTAWA — The federal Liberal government is kicking off what it calls the first phase of its inquiry into the tragic phenomenon of missing and murdered indigenous women and girls.
Justice Minister Jody Wilson-Raybould says the government will consult the families of victims over the next two months to get their input into how the inquiry should be designed and what it needs to accomplish.
Wilson-Raybould was joined for the announcement by Indigenous Affairs Minister Carolyn Bennett and Status of Women Minister Patty Hajdu.
She says while no inquiry can undo what has happened, it will help find a way forward because Canada "can and must do better."
Bennett says the consultations, which will include a website to allow Canadians to provide input and learn more about the process, will help to determine the terms of reference for the inquiry.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says those touched by the tragedy have waited long enough.
"The victims deserve justice; their families, an opportunity to heal and to be heard," Trudeau said in a speech earlier today.
